Kolkata: Every cancer survivor carries a story that extends far beyond diagnosis
and treatment, a story of resilience, determination and the unwavering will to
reclaim life. Celebrating these extraordinary journeys of hope and healing, Manipal
Hospital EM Bypass hosted the Sarcoma Survivor Meet 2026, bringing
together survivors, caregivers, clinicians and well-wishers on a common
platform to honour the strength of those who have overcome one of the rarest
forms of cancer. More than a commemorative gathering, the event underscored the
significance of early diagnosis, multidisciplinary cancer care, psychological
support and long-term rehabilitation in helping patients not only survive sarcoma
but also rebuild their lives with confidence and purpose.
The event commenced with a welcome address by Dr. Kousik
Nandy, Senior Consultant and HOD - Orthopaedic Oncology, Manipal
Hospital EM Bypass. followed by an insightful session by Ms. Arunima
Dutta, Consultant, Clinical Psychologist at Manipal Hospital EM Bypass, on
the emotional resilience required during the cancer journey. The inaugural
ceremony witnessed the presence of Dr. Sourav Datta, Director - Manipal
Oncology Services & Senior Consultant - Head and Neck Oncology Surgery,
Manipal Hospital EM Bypass; Dr. Ayanabh Debgupta, Regional Director, Manipal
Hospitals East; and Mr. Komal Dashora, Cluster Director - Mukundapur, Manipal
Hospitals.
The programme also featured an inspiring address by the
special guest - Swami Kripakarananda Ji, whose words encouraged the
audience to embrace hope and inner strength in the face of adversity. This was
followed by an insightful talk by renowned media personality Mr. Tarun
Goswami, who reflected on the power of resilience and the human spirit. Mountaineer
Mr. Anindya Mukherjee further captivated the audience with a powerful
multimedia presentation, drawing parallels between conquering formidable peaks
and overcoming life's greatest challenges. The evening concluded with a moving theatrical
performance by the survivors, that beautifully celebrated courage,
perseverance and the triumph of the human spirit.
Sharing his inspiring journey of courage, Mr. Chinmoy
Saha, a 55-year-old mechanical engineer and osteosarcoma survivor, said,
"When I was diagnosed with Stage II high-grade osteosarcoma in 2015, I had
a 14 cm tumour in my femur. What followed was a journey of surgeries,
chemotherapy, countless hospital visits, and years of follow-up care. More than
a decade later, I have realised that surviving cancer is not just about
completing treatment, it is about learning to embrace life with renewed
strength and purpose. While osteosarcoma changed many aspects of my life, it
never took away my passion for my work or my determination to keep moving
forward. The disease became a chapter in my journey, not the story of my life.
Today, I continue to pursue what I love with hope, gratitude and the belief
that resilience can overcome even the toughest challenges."
Sharing her experience, Ms. Monimala Mondal, a 29-year-old
government employee and osteosarcoma survivor, said, "When I first
noticed a swelling in my leg, I dismissed it as a minor injury. There was no
severe pain or any other alarming symptom, so cancer never crossed my mind. It
was only after I consulted an orthopaedic specialist that I was diagnosed with
osteosarcoma. Looking back, I realise how easily we tend to ignore subtle
changes in our bodies, and how costly that delay can be. Although I had to
undergo surgery to remove the affected end of my femur, I am grateful that the
cancer was detected early, allowing timely treatment and a better outcome. My
message to everyone is simple, never ignore persistent swelling, unexplained
pain or any unusual symptom that doesn't go away. Seeking medical attention at
the right time can make all the difference; it can save not only a limb, but
also your life."
Speaking at the programme, Dr. Kousik Nandy said,
"Sarcoma is a rare and complex group of cancers that often requires
specialised expertise and a coordinated multidisciplinary approach for the best
possible outcomes. While advances in surgery, chemotherapy, radiation therapy
and targeted treatments have significantly improved survival, the journey does
not end with medical treatment. Survivorship is about restoring confidence,
rebuilding lives and ensuring patients receive continued physical, emotional
and psychological support. The Sarcoma Survivor Meet is a celebration of every
individual's courage and resilience, while also reminding people that early
diagnosis, timely intervention and access to comprehensive cancer care can make
a life-changing difference."
The Sarcoma Survivor Meet reaffirms Manipal Hospital EM Bypass's commitment to providing comprehensive, patient-centric cancer care that extends beyond treatment to encompass rehabilitation, emotional wellbeing and long-term
survivorship. By bringing together survivors, clinicians and
caregivers, the initiative sought to inspire hope, raise awareness about
sarcoma and encourage patients to believe that with timely treatment,
compassionate care and unwavering determination, life after cancer is not only
possible but meaningful.